1
|
Zonfrilli A, Truglio F, Simeone A, Pelullo M, De Turris V, Benelli D, Checquolo S, Bellavia D, Palermo R, Uccelletti D, Screpanti I, Cialfi S, Talora C. Loss of ATP2C1 function promotes trafficking and degradation of NOTCH1: Implications for Hailey-Hailey disease. Exp Dermatol 2023. [PMID: 36789506 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Hailey-Hailey disease (HHD) is a rare autosomal dominantly inherited disorder caused by mutations in the ATP2C1 gene that encodes an adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-powered calcium channel pump. HHD is characterized by impaired epidermal cell-to-cell adhesion and defective keratinocyte growth/differentiation. The mechanism by which mutant ATP2C1 causes HHD is unknown and current treatments for affected individuals do not address the underlying defects and are ineffective. Notch signalling is a direct determinant of keratinocyte growth and differentiation. We found that loss of ATP2C1 leads to impaired Notch1 signalling, thus deregulation of the Notch signalling response is therefore likely to contribute to HHD manifestation. NOTCH1 is a transmembrane receptor and upon ligand binding, the intracellular domain (NICD) translocates to the nucleus activating its target genes. In the context of HHD, we found that loss of ATP2C1 function promotes upregulation of the active NOTCH1 protein (NICD-Val1744). Here, deeply exploring this aspect, we observed that NOTCH1 activation is not associated with the transcriptional enhancement of its targets. Moreover, in agreement with these results, we found a cytoplasmic localization of NICD-Val1744. We have also observed that ATP2C1-loss is associated with the degradation of NICD-Val1744 through the lysosomal/proteasome pathway. These results show that ATP2C1-loss could promote a mechanism by which NOTCH1 is endocytosed and degraded by the cell membrane. The deregulation of this phenomenon, finely regulated in physiological conditions, could in HHD lead to the deregulation of NOTCH1 with alteration of skin homeostasis and disease manifestation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Azzurra Zonfrilli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Truglio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Simeone
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Pelullo
- CLN2S-Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Sciences, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria De Turris
- CLN2S-Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Sciences, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Dario Benelli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Saula Checquolo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnology, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - Diana Bellavia
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rocco Palermo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Uccelletti
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "C. Darwin", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Samantha Cialfi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Talora
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhdanovskaya N, Lazzari S, Caprioglio D, Firrincieli M, Maioli C, Pace E, Imperio D, Talora C, Bellavia D, Checquolo S, Mori M, Screpanti I, Minassi A, Palermo R. Identification of a Novel Curcumin Derivative Influencing Notch Pathway and DNA Damage as a Potential Therapeutic Agent in T-ALL. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14235772. [PMID: 36497257 PMCID: PMC9736653 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14235772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive hematological malignancy considered curable by modern clinical management. Nevertheless, the prognosis for T-ALL high-risk cases or patients with relapsed and refractory disease is still dismal. Therefore, there is a keen interest in developing more efficient and less toxic therapeutic approaches. T-ALL pathogenesis is associated with Notch signaling alterations, making this pathway a highly promising target in the fight against T-ALL. Here, by exploring the anti-leukemic capacity of the natural polyphenol curcumin and its derivatives, we found that curcumin exposure impacts T-ALL cell line viability and decreases Notch signaling in a dose- and time-dependent fashion. However, our findings indicated that curcumin-mediated cell outcomes did not depend exclusively on Notch signaling inhibition, but might be mainly related to compound-induced DNA-damage-associated cell death. Furthermore, we identified a novel curcumin-based compound named CD2066, endowed with potentiated anti-proliferative activity in T-ALL compared to the parent molecule curcumin. At nanomolar concentrations, CD2066 antagonized Notch signaling, favored DNA damage, and acted synergistically with the CDK1 inhibitor Ro3306 in T-ALL cells, thus representing a promising novel candidate for developing therapeutic agents against Notch-dependent T-ALL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nadezda Zhdanovskaya
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Lazzari
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Diego Caprioglio
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | | | - Chiara Maioli
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Eleonora Pace
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Imperio
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Claudio Talora
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Diana Bellavia
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Saula Checquolo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnology, Sapienza Università di Roma, 04100 Latina, Italy
| | - Mattia Mori
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Minassi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.M.); (R.P.)
| | - Rocco Palermo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.M.); (R.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
De Falco F, Rompietti C, Sorcini D, Esposito A, Scialdone A, Baldoni S, Del Papa B, Adamo FM, Silva Barcelos EC, Dorillo E, Stella A, Di Ianni M, Screpanti I, Sportoletti P, Rosati E. GSK3β is a critical, druggable component of the network regulating the active NOTCH1 protein and cell viability in CLL. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:755. [PMID: 36050315 PMCID: PMC9436923 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05178-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
NOTCH1 alterations have been associated with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), but the molecular mechanisms underlying NOTCH1 activation in CLL cells are not completely understood. Here, we show that GSK3β downregulates the constitutive levels of the active NOTCH1 intracellular domain (N1-ICD) in CLL cells. Indeed, GSK3β silencing by small interfering RNA increases N1-ICD levels, whereas expression of an active GSK3β mutant reduces them. Additionally, the GSK3β inhibitor SB216763 enhances N1-ICD stability at a concentration at which it also increases CLL cell viability. We also show that N1-ICD is physically associated with GSK3β in CLL cells. SB216763 reduces GSK3β/N1-ICD interactions and the levels of ubiquitinated N1-ICD, indicating a reduction in N1-ICD proteasomal degradation when GSK3β is less active. We then modulated the activity of two upstream regulators of GSK3β and examined the impact on N1-ICD levels and CLL cell viability. Specifically, we inhibited AKT that is a negative regulator of GSK3β and is constitutively active in CLL cells. Furthermore, we activated the protein phosphatase 2 A (PP2A) that is a positive regulator of GSK3β, and has an impaired activity in CLL. Results show that either AKT inhibition or PP2A activation reduce N1-ICD expression and CLL cell viability in vitro, through mechanisms mediated by GSK3β activity. Notably, for PP2A activation, we used the highly specific activator DT-061, that also reduces leukemic burden in peripheral blood, spleen and bone marrow in the Eµ-TCL1 adoptive transfer model of CLL, with a concomitant decrease in N1-ICD expression. Overall, we identify in GSK3β a key component of the network regulating N1-ICD stability in CLL, and in AKT and PP2A new druggable targets for disrupting NOTCH1 signaling with therapeutic potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Filomena De Falco
- grid.9027.c0000 0004 1757 3630Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Chiara Rompietti
- grid.9027.c0000 0004 1757 3630Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Daniele Sorcini
- grid.9027.c0000 0004 1757 3630Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Angela Esposito
- grid.9027.c0000 0004 1757 3630Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Annarita Scialdone
- grid.9027.c0000 0004 1757 3630Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Stefano Baldoni
- grid.9027.c0000 0004 1757 3630Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy ,grid.412451.70000 0001 2181 4941Department of Medicine and Sciences of Aging, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Beatrice Del Papa
- grid.9027.c0000 0004 1757 3630Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Francesco Maria Adamo
- grid.9027.c0000 0004 1757 3630Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Estevão Carlos Silva Barcelos
- grid.9027.c0000 0004 1757 3630Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Erica Dorillo
- grid.9027.c0000 0004 1757 3630Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Arianna Stella
- grid.9027.c0000 0004 1757 3630Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Mauro Di Ianni
- grid.412451.70000 0001 2181 4941Department of Medicine and Sciences of Aging, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy ,grid.461844.bDepartment of Oncology and Hematology, Ospedale Civile “Santo Spirito”, ASL Pescara, Pescara, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- grid.7841.aDepartment of Molecular Medicine, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Sportoletti
- grid.9027.c0000 0004 1757 3630Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Emanuela Rosati
- grid.9027.c0000 0004 1757 3630Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Shichkin VP, Felli MP, Screpanti I, Antica M. Editorial: Thymus function and aging: A focus on thymic epithelial cells. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1003490. [PMID: 36059545 PMCID: PMC9429806 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1003490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Valentin P. Shichkin
- OmniFarma, Kyiv, Ukraine
- *Correspondence: Valentin P. Shichkin, ; ; Maria Pia Felli, ; Isabella Screpanti, ; Mariastefania Antica,
| | - Maria Pia Felli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Valentin P. Shichkin, ; ; Maria Pia Felli, ; Isabella Screpanti, ; Mariastefania Antica,
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Valentin P. Shichkin, ; ; Maria Pia Felli, ; Isabella Screpanti, ; Mariastefania Antica,
| | - Mariastefania Antica
- Division of Molecular Biology, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
- *Correspondence: Valentin P. Shichkin, ; ; Maria Pia Felli, ; Isabella Screpanti, ; Mariastefania Antica,
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Pelullo M, Zema S, De Carolis M, Cialfi S, Giuli MV, Palermo R, Capalbo C, Giannini G, Screpanti I, Checquolo S, Bellavia D. 5FU/Oxaliplatin-Induced Jagged1 Cleavage Counteracts Apoptosis Induction in Colorectal Cancer: A Novel Mechanism of Intrinsic Drug Resistance. Front Oncol 2022; 12:918763. [PMID: 35847908 PMCID: PMC9283835 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.918763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is characterized by early metastasis, resistance to anti-cancer therapy, and high mortality rate. Despite considerable progress in the development of new treatment options that improved survival benefits in patients with early-stage or advanced CRC, many patients relapse due to the activation of intrinsic or acquired chemoresistance mechanisms. Recently, we reported novel findings about the role of Jagged1 in CRC tumors with Kras signatures. We showed that Jagged1 is a novel proteolytic target of Kras signaling, which induces Jagged1 processing/activation resulting in Jag1-ICD release, which favors tumor development in vivo, through a non-canonical mechanism. Herein, we demonstrate that OXP and 5FU cause a strong accumulation of Jag1-ICD oncogene, through ERK1/2 activation, unveiling a surviving subpopulation with an enforced Jag1-ICD expression, presenting the ability to counteract OXP/5FU-induced apoptosis. Remarkably, we also clarify the clinical ineffectiveness of γ-secretase inhibitors (GSIs) in metastatic CRC (mCRC) patients. Indeed, we show that GSI compounds trigger Jag1-ICD release, which promotes cellular growth and EMT processes, functioning as tumor-promoting agents in CRC cells overexpressing Jagged1. We finally demonstrate that Jagged1 silencing in OXP- or 5FU-resistant subpopulations is enough to restore the sensitivity to chemotherapy, confirming that drug sensitivity/resistance is Jag1-ICD-dependent, suggesting Jagged1 as a molecular predictive marker for the outcome of chemotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pelullo
- CLN2S - Center for Life Nano- & Neuro Science, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Sabrina Zema
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Mariangela De Carolis
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Samantha Cialfi
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Valeria Giuli
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Rocco Palermo
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Capalbo
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Giannini
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Saula Checquolo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnology, Sapienza University, Latina, Italy
- *Correspondence: Saula Checquolo, ; Diana Bellavia,
| | - Diana Bellavia
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Saula Checquolo, ; Diana Bellavia,
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Rosichini M, Catanoso M, Screpanti I, Felli MP, Locatelli F, Velardi E. Signaling Crosstalks Drive Generation and Regeneration of the Thymus. Front Immunol 2022; 13:920306. [PMID: 35734178 PMCID: PMC9207182 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.920306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Optimal recovery of immune competence after periods of hematopoietic insults or stress is crucial to re-establish patient response to vaccines, pathogens and tumor antigens. This is particularly relevant for patients receiving high doses of chemotherapy or radiotherapy, who experience prolonged periods of lymphopenia, which can be associated with an increased risk of infections, malignant relapse, and adverse clinical outcome. While the thymus represents the primary organ responsible for the generation of a diverse pool of T cells, its function is profoundly impaired by a range of acute insults (including those caused by cytoreductive chemo/radiation therapy, infections and graft-versus-host disease) and by the chronic physiological deterioration associated with aging. Impaired thymic function increases the risk of infections and tumor antigen escape due to a restriction in T-cell receptor diversity and suboptimal immune response. Therapeutic approaches that can promote the renewal of the thymus have the potential to restore immune competence in patients. Previous work has documented the importance of the crosstalk between thymocytes and thymic epithelial cells in establishing correct architecture and function of thymic epithelium. This crosstalk is relevant not only during thymus organogenesis, but also to promote the recovery of its function after injuries. In this review, we will analyze the signals involved in the crosstalk between TECs and hematopoietic cells. We will focus in particular on how signals from T-cells can regulate TEC function and discuss the relevance of these pathways in restoring thymic function and T-cell immunity in experimental models, as well as in the clinical setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Rosichini
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marialuigia Catanoso
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Felli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Franco Locatelli
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Enrico Velardi
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Enrico Velardi,
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Giuli MV, Mancusi A, Giuliani E, Screpanti I, Checquolo S. Notch signaling in female cancers: a multifaceted node to overcome drug resistance. Cancer Drug Resist 2022; 4:805-836. [PMID: 35582386 PMCID: PMC8992449 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2021.53] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Drug resistance is one of the main challenges in cancer therapy, including in the treatment of female-specific malignancies, which account for more than 60% of cancer cases among women. Therefore, elucidating the underlying molecular mechanisms is an urgent need in gynecological cancers to foster novel therapeutic approaches. Notably, Notch signaling, including either receptors or ligands, has emerged as a promising candidate given its multifaceted role in almost all of the hallmarks of cancer. Concerning the connection between Notch pathway and drug resistance in the afore-mentioned tumor contexts, several studies focused on the Notch-dependent regulation of the cancer stem cell (CSC) subpopulation or the induction of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), both features implicated in either intrinsic or acquired resistance. Indeed, the present review provides an up-to-date overview of the published results on Notch signaling and EMT- or CSC-driven drug resistance. Moreover, other drug resistance-related mechanisms are examined such as the involvement of the Notch pathway in drug efflux and tumor microenvironment. Collectively, there is a long way to go before every facet will be fully understood; nevertheless, some small pieces are falling neatly into place. Overall, the main aim of this review is to provide strong evidence in support of Notch signaling inhibition as an effective strategy to evade or reverse resistance in female-specific cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Giuli
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Angelica Mancusi
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Eugenia Giuliani
- Scientific Direction, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute IRCCS, Rome 00144, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Saula Checquolo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnology, Sapienza University, Latina 04100, Italy.,Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome 00161, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Grazioli P, Orlando A, Giordano N, Noce C, Peruzzi G, Abdollahzadeh B, Screpanti I, Campese AF. Notch-Signaling Deregulation Induces Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells in T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Front Immunol 2022; 13:809261. [PMID: 35444651 PMCID: PMC9013886 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.809261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Notch receptors deeply influence T-cell development and differentiation, and their dysregulation represents a frequent causative event in "T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia" (T-ALL). "Myeloid-derived suppressor cells" (MDSCs) inhibit host immune responses in the tumor environment, favoring cancer progression, as reported in solid and hematologic tumors, with the notable exception of T-ALL. Here, we prove that Notch-signaling deregulation in immature T cells promotes CD11b+Gr-1+ MDSCs in the Notch3-transgenic murine model of T-ALL. Indeed, aberrant T cells from these mice can induce MDSCs in vitro, as well as in immunodeficient hosts. Conversely, anti-Gr1-mediated depletion of MDSCs in T-ALL-bearing mice reduces proliferation and expansion of malignant T cells. Interestingly, the coculture with Notch-dependent T-ALL cell lines, sustains the induction of human CD14+HLA-DRlow/neg MDSCs from healthy-donor PBMCs that are impaired upon exposure to gamma-secretase inhibitors. Notch-independent T-ALL cells do not induce MDSCs, suggesting that Notch-signaling activation is crucial for this process. Finally, in both murine and human models, IL-6 mediates MDSC induction, which is significantly reversed by treatment with neutralizing antibodies. Overall, our results unveil a novel role of Notch-deregulated T cells in modifying the T-ALL environment and represent a strong premise for the clinical assessment of MDSCs in T-ALL patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Grazioli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Orlando
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy.,Center for Life Nano- and Neuro-Science, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Rome, Italy
| | - Nike Giordano
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Noce
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanna Peruzzi
- Center for Life Nano- and Neuro-Science, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Giulimondi F, Vulpis E, Digiacomo L, Giuli MV, Mancusi A, Capriotti AL, Laganà A, Cerrato A, Zenezini Chiozzi R, Nicoletti C, Amenitsch H, Cardarelli F, Masuelli L, Bei R, Screpanti I, Pozzi D, Zingoni A, Checquolo S, Caracciolo G. Opsonin-Deficient Nucleoproteic Corona Endows UnPEGylated Liposomes with Stealth Properties In Vivo. ACS Nano 2022; 16:2088-2100. [PMID: 35040637 PMCID: PMC8867903 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.1c07687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
For several decades, surface grafted polyethylene glycol (PEG) has been a go-to strategy for preserving the synthetic identity of liposomes in physiological milieu and preventing clearance by immune cells. However, the limited clinical translation of PEGylated liposomes is mainly due to the protein corona formation and the subsequent modification of liposomes' synthetic identity, which affects their interactions with immune cells and blood residency. Here we exploit the electric charge of DNA to generate unPEGylated liposome/DNA complexes that, upon exposure to human plasma, gets covered with an opsonin-deficient protein corona. The final product of the synthetic process is a biomimetic nanoparticle type covered by a proteonucleotidic corona, or "proteoDNAsome", which maintains its synthetic identity in vivo and is able to slip past the immune system more efficiently than PEGylated liposomes. Accumulation of proteoDNAsomes in the spleen and the liver was lower than that of PEGylated systems. Our work highlights the importance of generating stable biomolecular coronas in the development of stealth unPEGylated particles, thus providing a connection between the biological behavior of particles in vivo and their synthetic identity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Giulimondi
- Department
of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University
of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Vulpis
- Department
of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University
of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Digiacomo
- Department
of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University
of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Valeria Giuli
- Department
of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University
of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Angelica Mancusi
- Department
of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University
of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Laura Capriotti
- Department
of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Aldo Laganà
- Department
of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Cerrato
- Department
of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Riccardo Zenezini Chiozzi
- Biomolecular
Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular
Research, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 8, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Carmine Nicoletti
- Unit
of Histology and Medical Embryology, Department of Anatomy, Histology,
Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza
University of Rome, Viale A. Scarpa 16, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Heinz Amenitsch
- Institute
of inorganic Chemistry, Graz University
of Technology, Stremayerg 6/IV, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | | | - Laura Masuelli
- Department
of Experimental Medicine, University of
Rome “Sapienza”, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Bei
- Department
of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department
of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University
of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Pozzi
- Department
of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University
of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Zingoni
- Department
of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University
of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Saula Checquolo
- Department
of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnology, Sapienza University of Rome, Corso della Repubblica 79, 04100 Latina, Italy
| | - Giulio Caracciolo
- Department
of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University
of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Zhdanovskaya N, Firrincieli M, Lazzari S, Pace E, Scribani Rossi P, Felli MP, Talora C, Screpanti I, Palermo R. Targeting Notch to Maximize Chemotherapeutic Benefits: Rationale, Advanced Strategies, and Future Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13205106. [PMID: 34680255 PMCID: PMC8533696 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The Notch signaling pathway regulates cell proliferation, apoptosis, stem cell self-renewal, and differentiation in a context-dependent fashion both during embryonic development and in adult tissue homeostasis. Consistent with its pleiotropic physiological role, unproper activation of the signaling promotes or counteracts tumor pathogenesis and therapy response in distinct tissues. In the last twenty years, a wide number of studies have highlighted the anti-cancer potential of Notch-modulating agents as single treatment and in combination with the existent therapies. However, most of these strategies have failed in the clinical exploration due to dose-limiting toxicity and low efficacy, encouraging the development of novel agents and the design of more appropriate combinations between Notch signaling inhibitors and chemotherapeutic drugs with improved safety and effectiveness for distinct types of cancer. Abstract Notch signaling guides cell fate decisions by affecting proliferation, apoptosis, stem cell self-renewal, and differentiation depending on cell and tissue context. Given its multifaceted function during tissue development, both overactivation and loss of Notch signaling have been linked to tumorigenesis in ways that are either oncogenic or oncosuppressive, but always context-dependent. Notch signaling is critical for several mechanisms of chemoresistance including cancer stem cell maintenance, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, tumor-stroma interaction, and malignant neovascularization that makes its targeting an appealing strategy against tumor growth and recurrence. During the last decades, numerous Notch-interfering agents have been developed, and the abundant preclinical evidence has been transformed in orphan drug approval for few rare diseases. However, the majority of Notch-dependent malignancies remain untargeted, even if the application of Notch inhibitors alone or in combination with common chemotherapeutic drugs is being evaluated in clinical trials. The modest clinical success of current Notch-targeting strategies is mostly due to their limited efficacy and severe on-target toxicity in Notch-controlled healthy tissues. Here, we review the available preclinical and clinical evidence on combinatorial treatment between different Notch signaling inhibitors and existent chemotherapeutic drugs, providing a comprehensive picture of molecular mechanisms explaining the potential or lacking success of these combinations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nadezda Zhdanovskaya
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
| | - Mariarosaria Firrincieli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
- Center for Life Nano Science, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Lazzari
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
| | - Eleonora Pace
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
| | - Pietro Scribani Rossi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
| | - Maria Pia Felli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Claudio Talora
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
- Correspondence: (I.S.); (R.P.)
| | - Rocco Palermo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.Z.); (M.F.); (S.L.); (E.P.); (P.S.R.); (C.T.)
- Center for Life Nano Science, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (I.S.); (R.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Di Franco S, Parrino B, Gaggianesi M, Pantina VD, Bianca P, Nicotra A, Mangiapane LR, Lo Iacono M, Ganduscio G, Veschi V, Brancato OR, Glaviano A, Turdo A, Pillitteri I, Colarossi L, Cascioferro S, Carbone D, Pecoraro C, Fiori ME, De Maria R, Todaro M, Screpanti I, Cirrincione G, Diana P, Stassi G. CHK1 inhibitor sensitizes resistant colorectal cancer stem cells to nortopsentin. iScience 2021; 24:102664. [PMID: 34169240 PMCID: PMC8209271 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Limited therapeutic options are available for advanced colorectal cancer (CRC). Herein, we report that exposure to a neo-synthetic bis(indolyl)thiazole alkaloid analog, nortopsentin 234 (NORA234), leads to an initial reduction of proliferative and clonogenic potential of CRC sphere cells (CR-CSphCs), followed by an adaptive response selecting the CR-CSphC-resistant compartment. Cells spared by the treatment with NORA234 express high levels of CD44v6, associated with a constitutive activation of Wnt pathway. In CR-CSphC-based organoids, NORA234 causes a genotoxic stress paralleled by G2-M cell cycle arrest and activation of CHK1, driving the DNA damage repair of CR-CSphCs, regardless of the mutational background, microsatellite stability, and consensus molecular subtype. Synergistic combination of NORA234 and CHK1 (rabusertib) targeting is synthetic lethal inducing death of both CD44v6-negative and CD44v6-positive CRC stem cell fractions, aside from Wnt pathway activity. These data could provide a rational basis to develop an effective strategy for the treatment of patients with CRC. CR-CSCs acquire a long-term resistance to the NORA234 treatment Replicative and genotoxic stress induces the activation of CHK1 Adaptive response to NORA234 is associated with high expression levels of CHK1 NORA234 together with targeting of CHK1 leads to depletion of CR-CSC compartment
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Di Franco
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences, University of Palermo, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Barbara Parrino
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Miriam Gaggianesi
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences, University of Palermo, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Davide Pantina
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences, University of Palermo, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Paola Bianca
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences, University of Palermo, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Annalisa Nicotra
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences, University of Palermo, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Laura Rosa Mangiapane
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences, University of Palermo, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Melania Lo Iacono
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences, University of Palermo, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Gloria Ganduscio
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences, University of Palermo, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Veronica Veschi
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences, University of Palermo, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Ornella Roberta Brancato
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonino Glaviano
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences, University of Palermo, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Alice Turdo
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Irene Pillitteri
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences, University of Palermo, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Colarossi
- Pathology Unit, Mediterranean Institute of Oncology, Viagrande, Catania, Italy
| | - Stella Cascioferro
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Daniela Carbone
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Camilla Pecoraro
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Micol Eleonora Fiori
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Ruggero De Maria
- Institute of General Pathology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Roma, Italy.,Policlinico A Gemelli, Lazio, Roma, Italy
| | - Matilde Todaro
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Girolamo Cirrincione
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Patrizia Diana
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giorgio Stassi
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences, University of Palermo, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
De Blasio C, Verma N, Moretti M, Cialfi S, Zonfrilli A, Franchitto M, Truglio F, De Smaele E, Ichijo H, Naguro I, Screpanti I, Talora C. Functional cooperation between ASK1 and p21 Waf1/Cip1 in the balance of cell-cycle arrest, cell death and tumorigenesis of stressed keratinocytes. Cell Death Discov 2021; 7:75. [PMID: 33846306 PMCID: PMC8042117 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-021-00459-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Both CDKN1A (p21 Waf1/Cip1) and Apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1) play important roles in tumorigenesis. The role of p21 Waf1/Cip1 in attenuating ASK1-induced apoptosis by various stress conditions is well established. However, how ASK1 and p21 Waf1/Cip1 functionally interact during tumorigenesis is still unclear. To address this aspect, we crossed ASK1 knockout (ASK1KO) mice with p21 Waf1/Cip1 knockout (p21KO) mice to compare single and double-mutant mice. We observed that deletion of p21 Waf1/Cip1 leads to increased keratinocyte proliferation but also increased cell death. This is mechanistically linked to the ASK1 axis-induced apoptosis, including p38 and PARP. Indeed, deletion of ASK1 does not alter the proliferation but decreases the apoptosis of p21KO keratinocytes. To analyze as this interaction might affect skin carcinogenesis, we investigated the response of ASK1KO and p21KO mice to DMBA/TPA-induced tumorigenesis. Here we show that while endogenous ASK1 is dispensable for skin homeostasis, ASK1KO mice are resistant to DMBA/TPA-induced tumorigenesis. However, we found that epidermis lacking both p21 and ASK1 reacquires increased sensitivity to DMBA/TPA-induced tumorigenesis. We demonstrate that apoptosis and cell-cycle progression in p21KO keratinocytes are uncoupled in the absence of ASK1. These data support the model that a critical event ensuring the balance between cell death, cell-cycle arrest, and successful divisions in keratinocytes during stress conditions is the p21-dependent ASK1 inactivation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlo De Blasio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, Rome, 00161, Italy.,IRCM, Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut régional du Cancer de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Nagendra Verma
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Marta Moretti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Samantha Cialfi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Azzurra Zonfrilli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Matteo Franchitto
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Federica Truglio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Enrico De Smaele
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Hidenori Ichijo
- Laboratory of Cell Signaling, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Isao Naguro
- Laboratory of Cell Signaling, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Claudio Talora
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, Rome, 00161, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Pelullo M, Savi D, Quattrucci S, Cimino G, Pizzuti A, Screpanti I, Talora C, Cialfi S. miR-125b/NRF2/HO-1 axis is involved in protection against oxidative stress of cystic fibrosis: A pilot study. Exp Ther Med 2021; 21:585. [PMID: 33850557 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In the physiopathology of cystic fibrosis (CF), oxidative stress implications are recognized and widely accepted. The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) defects disrupt the intracellular redox balance causing CF pathological hallmarks. Therefore, oxidative stress together with aberrant expression levels of detoxification genes and microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) may be associated with clinical outcome. Using total RNA extracted from epithelial nasal cells, the present study analyzed the expression levels of oxidative stress genes and one miRNA using quantitative PCR in a representative number of patients with CF compared with in healthy individuals. The present pilot study revealed the existence of an association among CFTR, genes involved in the oxidative stress response and miR-125b. The observed downregulation of CFTR gene expression was accompanied by increased expression levels of Nuclear factor erythroid derived-2 like2 and its targets NAD(P)H:Quinone Oxidoreductase and glutathione S-transferase 1. Moreover, the expression levels of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and miR-125b were positively correlated with a forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV1) >60% in patients with CF with chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infection (r=0.74; P<0.001 and r=0.57; P<0.001, respectively). The present study revealed the activation of an inducible, but not fully functional, oxidative stress response to protect airway cells against reactive oxygen species-dependent injury in CF disease. Additionally, the correlations of HO-1 and miR-125b expression with an improved FEV1 value suggested that these factors may synergistically protect the airway cells from oxidative stress damage, inflammation and apoptosis. Furthermore, HO-1 and miR-125b may be used as prognostic markers explaining the wide CF phenotypic variability as an additional control level over the CFTR gene mutations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pelullo
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, I-00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Savi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, I-00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Serena Quattrucci
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapienza University of Rome, I-00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Cimino
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapienza University of Rome, I-00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Pizzuti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, I-00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, I-00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Talora
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, I-00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Samantha Cialfi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, I-00161 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zema S, Pelullo M, Nardozza F, Felli MP, Screpanti I, Bellavia D. A Dynamic Role of Mastermind-Like 1: A Journey Through the Main (Path)ways Between Development and Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:613557. [PMID: 33425921 PMCID: PMC7787167 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.613557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Major signaling pathways, such as Notch, Hedgehog (Hh), Wnt/β-catenin and Hippo, are targeted by a plethora of physiological and pathological stimuli, ultimately resulting in the modulation of genes that act coordinately to establish specific biological processes. Many biological programs are strictly controlled by the assembly of multiprotein complexes into the nucleus, where a regulated recruitment of specific transcription factors and coactivators on gene promoter region leads to different transcriptional outcomes. MAML1 results to be a versatile coactivator, able to set up synergistic interlinking with pivotal signaling cascades and able to coordinate the network of cross-talking pathways. Accordingly, despite its original identification as a component of the Notch signaling pathway, several recent reports suggest a more articulated role for MAML1 protein, showing that it is able to sustain/empower Wnt/β-catenin, Hh and Hippo pathways, in a Notch-independent manner. For this reason, MAML1 may be associated to a molecular “switch”, with the function to control the activation of major signaling pathways, triggering in this way critical biological processes during embryonic and post-natal life. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about the pleiotropic role played by MAML proteins, in particular MAML1, and we recapitulate how it takes part actively in physiological and pathological signaling networks. On this point, we also discuss the contribution of MAML proteins to malignant transformation. Accordingly, genetic alterations or impaired expression of MAML proteins may lead to a deregulated crosstalk among the pathways, culminating in a series of pathological disorders, including cancer development. Given their central role, a better knowledge of the molecular mechanisms that regulate the interplay of MAML proteins with several signaling pathways involved in tumorigenesis may open up novel opportunities for an attractive molecular targeted anticancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Zema
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnology, Sapienza University, Latina, Italy
| | - Maria Pelullo
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Maria Pia Felli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Diana Bellavia
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Giuli MV, Diluvio G, Giuliani E, Franciosa G, Di Magno L, Pignataro MG, Tottone L, Nicoletti C, Besharat ZM, Peruzzi G, Pelullo M, Palermo R, Canettieri G, Talora C, d'Amati G, Bellavia D, Screpanti I, Checquolo S. Notch3 contributes to T-cell leukemia growth via regulation of the unfolded protein response. Oncogenesis 2020; 9:93. [PMID: 33071287 PMCID: PMC7569087 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-020-00279-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Unfolded protein response (UPR) is a conserved adaptive response that tries to restore protein homeostasis after endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Recent studies highlighted the role of UPR in acute leukemias and UPR targeting has been suggested as a therapeutic approach. Aberrant Notch signaling is a common feature of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), as downregulation of Notch activity negatively affects T-ALL cell survival, leading to the employment of Notch inhibitors in T-ALL therapy. Here we demonstrate that Notch3 is able to sustain UPR in T-ALL cells, as Notch3 silencing favored a Bip-dependent IRE1α inactivation under ER stress conditions, leading to increased apoptosis via upregulation of the ER stress cell death mediator CHOP. By using Juglone, a naturally occurring naphthoquinone acting as an anticancer agent, to decrease Notch3 expression and induce ER stress, we observed an increased ER stress-associated apoptosis. Altogether our results suggest that Notch3 inhibition may prevent leukemia cells from engaging a functional UPR needed to compensate the Juglone-mediated ER proteotoxic stress. Notably, in vivo administration of Juglone to human T-ALL xenotransplant models significantly reduced tumor growth, finally fostering the exploitation of Juglone-dependent Notch3 inhibition to perturb the ER stress/UPR signaling in Notch3-dependent T-ALL subsets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Valeria Giuli
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Diluvio
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Eugenia Giuliani
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy.,Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Franciosa
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, University of Copenaghen, Copenaghen, Denmark
| | - Laura Di Magno
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Gemma Pignataro
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Tottone
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Carmine Nicoletti
- Unit of Histology and Medical Embryology, Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Zein Mersini Besharat
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanna Peruzzi
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Pelullo
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Rocco Palermo
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Canettieri
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Talora
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia d'Amati
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Diana Bellavia
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy.
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy.
| | - Saula Checquolo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnology, Sapienza University, Latina, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
López-López S, Monsalve EM, Romero de Ávila MJ, González-Gómez J, Hernández de León N, Ruiz-Marcos F, Baladrón V, Nueda ML, García-León MJ, Screpanti I, Felli MP, Laborda J, García-Ramírez JJ, Díaz-Guerra MJM. NOTCH3 signaling is essential for NF-κB activation in TLR-activated macrophages. Sci Rep 2020; 10:14839. [PMID: 32908186 PMCID: PMC7481794 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-71810-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Macrophage activation by Toll receptors is an essential event in the development of the response against pathogens. NOTCH signaling pathway is involved in the control of macrophage activation and the inflammatory processes. In this work, we have characterized NOTCH signaling in macrophages activated by Toll-like receptor (TLR) triggering and determined that DLL1 and DLL4 are the main ligands responsible for NOTCH signaling. We have identified ADAM10 as the main protease implicated in NOTCH processing and activation. We have also observed that furin, which processes NOTCH receptors, is induced by TLR signaling in a NOTCH-dependent manner. NOTCH3 is the only NOTCH receptor expressed in resting macrophages. Its expression increased rapidly in the first hours after TLR4 activation, followed by a gradual decrease, which was coincident with an elevation of the expression of the other NOTCH receptors. All NOTCH1, 2 and 3 contribute to the increased NOTCH signaling detected in activated macrophages. We also observed a crosstalk between NOTCH3 and NOTCH1 during macrophage activation. Finally, our results highlight the relevance of NOTCH3 in the activation of NF-κB, increasing p65 phosphorylation by p38 MAP kinase. Our data identify, for the first time, NOTCH3 as a relevant player in the control of inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susana López-López
- Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Medical School/CRIB, Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Inorganic and Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, UCLM, C/Almansa 14, 02008, Albacete, Spain.,Unidad Asociada de Biomedicina UCLM, Unidad Asociada CSIC, Albacete, Spain
| | - Eva María Monsalve
- Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Medical School/CRIB, Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Inorganic and Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, UCLM, C/Almansa 14, 02008, Albacete, Spain.,Unidad Asociada de Biomedicina UCLM, Unidad Asociada CSIC, Albacete, Spain
| | - María José Romero de Ávila
- Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Medical School/CRIB, Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Inorganic and Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, UCLM, C/Almansa 14, 02008, Albacete, Spain.,Unidad Asociada de Biomedicina UCLM, Unidad Asociada CSIC, Albacete, Spain
| | - Julia González-Gómez
- Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, CRIB/Biomedicine Unit, Pharmacy School, UCLM/CSIC, C/Almansa 14, 02008, Albacete, Spain
| | | | | | - Victoriano Baladrón
- Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Medical School/CRIB, Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Inorganic and Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, UCLM, C/Almansa 14, 02008, Albacete, Spain.,Unidad Asociada de Biomedicina UCLM, Unidad Asociada CSIC, Albacete, Spain
| | - María Luisa Nueda
- Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, CRIB/Biomedicine Unit, Pharmacy School, UCLM/CSIC, C/Almansa 14, 02008, Albacete, Spain
| | - María Jesús García-León
- Department of Cell Biology and Immunology, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049, Madrid, Spain.,INSERM UMR_S1109, Tumor Biomechanics, 67000, Strasbourg, France.,Université de Strasbourg, 67000, Strasbourg, France.,Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), 67000, Strasbourg, France
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Roma, Italy
| | - María Pía Felli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Jorge Laborda
- Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, CRIB/Biomedicine Unit, Pharmacy School, UCLM/CSIC, C/Almansa 14, 02008, Albacete, Spain
| | - José Javier García-Ramírez
- Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Medical School/CRIB, Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Inorganic and Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, UCLM, C/Almansa 14, 02008, Albacete, Spain. .,Unidad Asociada de Biomedicina UCLM, Unidad Asociada CSIC, Albacete, Spain.
| | - María José M Díaz-Guerra
- Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Medical School/CRIB, Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Inorganic and Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, UCLM, C/Almansa 14, 02008, Albacete, Spain. .,Unidad Asociada de Biomedicina UCLM, Unidad Asociada CSIC, Albacete, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Giuli MV, Hanieh PN, Giuliani E, Rinaldi F, Marianecci C, Screpanti I, Checquolo S, Carafa M. Current Trends in ATRA Delivery for Cancer Therapy. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:E707. [PMID: 32731612 PMCID: PMC7465813 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12080707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
All-Trans Retinoic Acid (ATRA) is the most active metabolite of vitamin A. It is critically involved in the regulation of multiple processes, such as cell differentiation and apoptosis, by activating specific genomic pathways or by influencing key signaling proteins. Furthermore, mounting evidence highlights the anti-tumor activity of this compound. Notably, oral administration of ATRA is the first choice treatment in Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia (APL) in adults and NeuroBlastoma (NB) in children. Regrettably, the promising results obtained for these diseases have not been translated yet into the clinics for solid tumors. This is mainly due to ATRA-resistance developed by cancer cells and to ineffective delivery and targeting. This up-to-date review deals with recent studies on different ATRA-loaded Drug Delivery Systems (DDSs) development and application on several tumor models. Moreover, patents, pre-clinical, and clinical studies are also reviewed. To sum up, the main aim of this in-depth review is to provide a detailed overview of the several attempts which have been made in the recent years to ameliorate ATRA delivery and targeting in cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Valeria Giuli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Nadia Hanieh
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Eugenia Giuliani
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Rinaldi
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlotta Marianecci
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Saula Checquolo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnology, Sapienza University of Rome, 04100 Latina, Italy
| | - Maria Carafa
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Grazioli P, Orlando A, Giordano N, Noce C, Peruzzi G, Scafetta G, Screpanti I, Campese AF. NF-κB1 Regulates Immune Environment and Outcome of Notch-Dependent T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Front Immunol 2020; 11:541. [PMID: 32346377 PMCID: PMC7169422 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive pediatric malignancy that arises from the transformation of immature T-cell progenitors and has no definitive cure. Notch signaling governs many steps of T cell development and its dysregulation represents the most common causative event in the pathogenesis of T-ALL. The activation of canonical NF-κB pathway has been described as a critical downstream mediator of Notch oncogenic functions, through the sustaining of tumor cell survival and growth. The potential role of Notch/NF-κB partnership is also emerging in the generation and function of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the context of cancer. However, little is known about the effects of combined mutations of Notch and NF-κB in regulating immune-environment and progression of T-ALL. To shed light on the topics above we generated double-mutant mice, harboring conventional knock-out mutation of NF-κB1/p50 on the genetic background of a transgenic model of Notch-dependent T-ALL. The immunophenotyping of double-mutant mice demonstrates that NF-κB1 deletion inhibits the progression of T-ALL and strongly modifies immune-environment of the disease. Double-mutant mice display indeed a dramatic reduction of pre-leukemic CD4+CD8+ (DP) T cells and regulatory T cells (Tregs) and, concurrently, the rising of an aggressive myeloproliferative trait with a massive expansion of CD11b+Gr-1+ cells in the periphery, and an accumulation of the granulocyte/monocyte progenitors in the bone-marrow. Interestingly, double-mutant T cells are able to improve the growth of CD11b+Gr-1+ cells in vitro, and, more importantly, the in vivo depletion of T cells in double-mutant mice significantly reduces the expansion of myeloid compartment. Our results strongly suggest that the myeloproliferative trait observed in double-mutant mice may depend on non-cell-autonomous mechanism/s driven by T cells. Moreover, we demonstrate that the reduction of CD4+CD8+ (DP) T cells and Tregs in double-mutant mice relies on a significant enhancement of their apoptotic rate. In conclusion, double-mutant mice may represent a useful model to deepen the knowledge of the consequences on T-ALL immune-environment of modulating Notch/NF-κB relationships in tumor cells. More importantly, information derived from these studies may help in the refinement of multitarget therapies for the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Grazioli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Orlando
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy.,Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Nike Giordano
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Noce
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanna Peruzzi
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Gaia Scafetta
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Giulimondi F, Digiacomo L, Pozzi D, Palchetti S, Vulpis E, Capriotti AL, Chiozzi RZ, Laganà A, Amenitsch H, Masuelli L, Peruzzi G, Mahmoudi M, Screpanti I, Zingoni A, Caracciolo G. Author Correction: Interplay of protein corona and immune cells controls blood residency of liposomes. Nat Commun 2020; 11:1697. [PMID: 32235830 PMCID: PMC7109038 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-15500-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Giulimondi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy.,Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Digiacomo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Pozzi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Palchetti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Vulpis
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Laura Capriotti
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Aldo Laganà
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Heinz Amenitsch
- Institute of inorganic Chemistry, Graz University of Technology, Stremayerg 6/IV, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Laura Masuelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanna Peruzzi
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Morteza Mahmoudi
- Precision Health Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48823, USA.
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Zingoni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulio Caracciolo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Tsaouli G, Barbarulo A, Vacca A, Screpanti I, Felli MP. Molecular Mechanisms of Notch Signaling in Lymphoid Cell Lineages Development: NF-κB and Beyond. Adv Exp Med Biol 2020; 1227:145-164. [PMID: 32072504 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-36422-9_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Notch is a ligand-receptor interaction-triggered signaling cascade highly conserved, that influences multiple lineage decisions within the hematopoietic and the immune system. It is a recognized model of intercellular communication that plays an essential role in embryonic as well as in adult immune cell development and homeostasis. Four members belong to the family of Notch receptors (Notch1-4), and each of them plays nonredundant functions at several developmental stages. Canonical and noncanonical pathways of Notch signaling are multifaceted drivers of immune cells biology. In fact, increasing evidence highlighted Notch as an important modulator of immune responses, also in cancer microenvironment. In these contexts, multiple transduction signals, including canonical and alternative NF-κB pathways, play a relevant role. In this chapter, we will first describe the critical role of Notch and NF-κB signals in lymphoid lineages developing in thymus: natural killer T cells, thymocytes, and thymic T regulatory cells. We will address also the role played by ligand expressing cells. Given the importance of Notch/NF-κB cross talk, its role in T-cell leukemia development and progression will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Tsaouli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - A Barbarulo
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - A Vacca
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - I Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - M P Felli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Cialfi S, Calabro S, Franchitto M, Zonfrilli A, Screpanti I, Talora C. Hypotonic, Acidic Oxidizing Solution Containing Hypochlorous Acid (HClO) as a Potential Treatment of Hailey-Hailey Disease. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24244427. [PMID: 31817098 PMCID: PMC6943548 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24244427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Hailey–Hailey disease (HHD) is a rare, chronic and recurrent blistering disorder, characterized by erosions occurring primarily in intertriginous regions and histologically by suprabasal acantholysis. Mutation of the Golgi Ca2+-ATPase ATP2C1 has been identified as having a causative role in Hailey–Hailey disease. HHD-derived keratinocytes have increased oxidative-stress that is associated with impaired proliferation and differentiation. Additionally, HHD is characterized by skin lesions that do not heal and by recurrent skin infections, indicating that HHD keratinocytes might not respond well to challenges such as wounding or infection. Hypochlorous acid has been demonstrated in vitro and in vivo to possess properties that rescue both oxidative stress and altered wound repair process. Thus, we investigated the potential effects of a stabilized form of hypochlorous acid (APR-TD012) in an in vitro model of HHD. We found that treatment of ATP2C1-defective keratinocytes with APR-TD012 contributed to upregulation of Nrf2 (nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2). Additionally, APR TD012-treatment restored the defective proliferative capability of siATP2C1-treated keratinocytes. We also found that the APR-TD012 treatment might support wound healing process, due to its ability to modulate the expression of wound healing associated cytokines. These observations suggested that the APR-TD012 might be a potential therapeutic agent for HHD-lesions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Cialfi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy (M.F.); (A.Z.); (I.S.)
- Correspondence: (S.C.); (C.T.)
| | - Salvatore Calabro
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy (M.F.); (A.Z.); (I.S.)
| | - Matteo Franchitto
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy (M.F.); (A.Z.); (I.S.)
| | - Azzurra Zonfrilli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy (M.F.); (A.Z.); (I.S.)
- Center of Life Nano Science Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy (M.F.); (A.Z.); (I.S.)
| | - Claudio Talora
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy (M.F.); (A.Z.); (I.S.)
- Correspondence: (S.C.); (C.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
De Blasio C, Zonfrilli A, Franchitto M, Mariano G, Cialfi S, Verma N, Checquolo S, Bellavia D, Palermo R, Benelli D, Screpanti I, Talora C. PLK1 targets NOTCH1 during DNA damage and mitotic progression. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:17941-17950. [PMID: 31597699 PMCID: PMC6879332 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.009881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Notch signaling plays a complex role in carcinogenesis, and its signaling pathway has both tumor suppressor and oncogenic components. To identify regulators that might control this dual activity of NOTCH1, we screened a chemical library targeting kinases and identified Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) as one of the kinases involved in arsenite-induced NOTCH1 down-modulation. As PLK1 activity drives mitotic entry but also is inhibited after DNA damage, we investigated the PLK1-NOTCH1 interplay in the G2 phase of the cell cycle and in response to DNA damage. Here, we found that PLK1 regulates NOTCH1 expression at G2/M transition. However, when cells in G2 phase are challenged with DNA damage, PLK1 is inhibited to prevent entry into mitosis. Interestingly, we found that the interaction between NOTCH1 and PLK1 is functionally important during the DNA damage response, as we found that whereas PLK1 activity is inhibited, NOTCH1 expression is maintained during DNA damage response. During genotoxic stress, cellular transformation requires that promitotic activity must override DNA damage checkpoint signaling to drive proliferation. Interestingly, we found that arsenite-induced genotoxic stress causes a PLK1-dependent signaling response that antagonizes the involvement of NOTCH1 in the DNA damage checkpoint. Taken together, our data provide evidence that Notch signaling is altered but not abolished in SCC cells. Thus, it is also important to recognize that Notch plasticity might be modulated and could represent a key determinant to switch on/off either the oncogenic or tumor suppressor function of Notch signaling in a single type of tumor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlo De Blasio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Azzurra Zonfrilli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Center of Life Nano Science Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Franchitto
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Germano Mariano
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Samantha Cialfi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Nagendra Verma
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Saula Checquolo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnology, Sapienza University, 04100 Latina, Italy
| | - Diana Bellavia
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Rocco Palermo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Dario Benelli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Talora
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Pelullo M, Nardozza F, Zema S, Quaranta R, Nicoletti C, Besharat ZM, Felli MP, Cerbelli B, d'Amati G, Palermo R, Capalbo C, Talora C, Di Marcotullio L, Giannini G, Checquolo S, Screpanti I, Bellavia D. Kras/ADAM17-Dependent Jag1-ICD Reverse Signaling Sustains Colorectal Cancer Progression and Chemoresistance. Cancer Res 2019; 79:5575-5586. [PMID: 31506332 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-19-0145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is characterized by well-known genetic defects and approximately 50% of cases harbor oncogenic Ras mutations. Increased expression of Notch ligand Jagged1 occurs in several human malignancies, including colorectal cancer, and correlates with cancer progression, poor prognosis, and recurrence. Herein, we demonstrated that Jagged1 was constitutively processed in colorectal cancer tumors with mutant Kras, which ultimately triggered intrinsic reverse signaling via its nuclear-targeted intracellular domain Jag1-ICD. This process occurred when Kras/Erk/ADAM17 signaling was switched on, demonstrating that Jagged1 is a novel target of the Kras signaling pathway. Notably, Jag1-ICD promoted tumor growth and epithelial-mesenchymal transition, enhancing colorectal cancer progression and chemoresistance both in vitro and in vivo. These data highlight a novel role for Jagged1 in colorectal cancer tumor biology that may go beyond its effect on canonical Notch activation and suggest that Jag1-ICD may behave as an oncogenic driver that is able to sustain tumor pathogenesis and to confer chemoresistance through a noncanonical mechanism. SIGNIFICANCE: These findings present a novel role of the transcriptionally active Jag1-ICD fragment to confer and mediate some of the activity of oncogenic KRAS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pelullo
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Sabrina Zema
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Quaranta
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Carmine Nicoletti
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics, Unit of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Maria Pia Felli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Bruna Cerbelli
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia d'Amati
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Rocco Palermo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Capalbo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Talora
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Di Marcotullio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Giannini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia, Italy
| | - Saula Checquolo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnology, Sapienza University, Latina, Italy.
| | | | - Diana Bellavia
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Mastrangelo M, Alfonsi C, Screpanti I, Masuelli L, Tavazzi B, Mei D, Giannotti F, Guerrini R, Leuzzi V. Broadening phenotype of adenylosuccinate lyase deficiency: A novel clinical pattern resembling neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis. Mol Genet Metab Rep 2019; 21:100502. [PMID: 31467849 PMCID: PMC6713842 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgmr.2019.100502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Revised: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe a 7-year-old boy presenting with a developmental encephalopathy, severe epilepsy, retinopathy with salt and pepper fundus, and ultrastructural skin alterations resembling a neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis. Whole exome-sequencing detected biallelic variants in the ADSL gene (c.65C > T [p.(Ala22Val)] and c.340 T > C [p.(Tyr114His)]). The increase of SAICAR and S-Ado in blood and urine was consistent with the pattern of adenylosuccinate lyase deficiency (OMIM 103050). An unusual increase of AICAR, that was due to a residual ADSL enzyme activity of about 28%, was also detected. Neither salt and pepper retinopathy nor ultrastructural skin alterations had been reported in ADSL deficiency before. Impaired purinergic signaling inside the retina is probably involved in visual failure. Ultrastructural alterations in fibroblasts suggest a possible damage of autophagic processes, whose role in the pathogenesis of neurological dysfunction deserves further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mario Mastrangelo
- Division of Child Neurology and Infantile Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Alfonsi
- Division of Child Neurology and Infantile Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Laura Masuelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry Catholic University, Rome
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Italy
| | - Davide Mei
- Neuroscience and Neurogenetics Excellence Centre, Children's Hospital Anna Meyer, Florence, Italy
| | - Flavia Giannotti
- Division of Child Neurology and Infantile Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Renzo Guerrini
- Neuroscience and Neurogenetics Excellence Centre, Children's Hospital Anna Meyer, Florence, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Leuzzi
- Division of Child Neurology and Infantile Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Corresponding author at: Division of Child Neurology and Infantile Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza- University of Rome, Via dei Sabelli 108, 00141 Roma, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Pelullo M, Zema S, Nardozza F, Checquolo S, Screpanti I, Bellavia D. Wnt, Notch, and TGF-β Pathways Impinge on Hedgehog Signaling Complexity: An Open Window on Cancer. Front Genet 2019; 10:711. [PMID: 31552081 PMCID: PMC6736567 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Constitutive activation of the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway is associated with increased risk of developing several malignancies. The biological and pathogenic importance of Hh signaling emphasizes the need to control its action tightly, both physiologically and therapeutically. Evidence of crosstalk between Hh and other signaling pathways is reported in many tumor types. Here, we provide an overview of the current knowledge about the communication between Hh and major signaling pathways, such as Notch, Wnt, and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), which play critical roles in both embryonic and adult life. When these pathways are unbalanced, impaired crosstalk contributes to disease development. It is reported that more than one of these pathways are active in different type of tumors, at the same time. Therefore, starting from a plethora of stimuli that activate multiple signaling pathways, we describe the signals that preferentially converge on the Hh signaling cascade that influence its activity. Moreover, we highlight several connection points between Hh and Notch, Wnt, or TGF-β pathways, showing a reciprocal synergism that contributes to tumorigenesis, supporting a more malignant behavior by tumor cells, such as in leukemia and brain tumors. Understanding the importance of these molecular interlinking networks will provide a rational basis for combined anticancer drug development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pelullo
- Center of Life Nano Science Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Sabrina Zema
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Saula Checquolo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University, Latina, Italy
| | | | - Diana Bellavia
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Giulimondi F, Digiacomo L, Pozzi D, Palchetti S, Vulpis E, Capriotti AL, Chiozzi RZ, Laganà A, Amenitsch H, Masuelli L, Peruzzi G, Mahmoudi M, Screpanti I, Zingoni A, Caracciolo G. Interplay of protein corona and immune cells controls blood residency of liposomes. Nat Commun 2019; 10:3686. [PMID: 31417080 PMCID: PMC6695391 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-11642-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
In vivo liposomes, like other types of nanoparticles, acquire a totally new 'biological identity' due to the formation of a biomolecular coating known as the protein corona that depends on and modifies the liposomes' synthetic identity. The liposome-protein corona is a dynamic interface that regulates the interaction of liposomes with the physiological environment. Here we show that the biological identity of liposomes is clearly linked to their sequestration from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of healthy donors that ultimately leads to removal from the bloodstream. Pre-coating liposomes with an artificial corona made of human plasma proteins drastically reduces capture by circulating leukocytes in whole blood and may be an effective strategy to enable prolonged circulation in vivo. We conclude with a critical assessment of the key concepts of liposome technology that need to be reviewed for its definitive clinical translation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Giulimondi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Digiacomo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Pozzi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Palchetti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Vulpis
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Laura Capriotti
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Aldo Laganà
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Heinz Amenitsch
- Institute of inorganic Chemistry, Graz University of Technology, Stremayerg 6/IV, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Laura Masuelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanna Peruzzi
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Morteza Mahmoudi
- Precision Health Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48823, USA.
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Zingoni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulio Caracciolo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Pelullo M, Megiorni F, Cimino G, Pizzuti A, Quattrucci S, Screpanti I, Talora C, Cialfi S. P026 A pilot study on oxidative stress in cystic fibrosis: the involvement of miR125b and HO-1. J Cyst Fibros 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/s1569-1993(19)30321-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
28
|
Quaglio D, Zhdanovskaya N, Tobajas G, Cuartas V, Balducci S, Christodoulou MS, Fabrizi G, Gargantilla M, Priego EM, Carmona Pestaña Á, Passarella D, Screpanti I, Botta B, Palermo R, Mori M, Ghirga F, Pérez-Pérez MJ. Chalcones and Chalcone-mimetic Derivatives as Notch Inhibitors in a Model of T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. ACS Med Chem Lett 2019; 10:639-643. [PMID: 30996810 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.8b00608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Based on hit-likeness and chemical diversity, a number of chalcones and chalcone-mimetic compounds were selected as putative Notch inhibitors. The evaluation of the antiproliferative effect combined with the inhibition of Notch1 expression in KOPTK1 cell line identified compound 18, featuring a tetrahydronaphthalene-based scaffold, as a new promising Notch-blocking agent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Quaglio
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, “Department of Excellence 2018−2022”, Sapienza Università di Roma, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Gloria Tobajas
- Instituto de Química Médica, CSIC, Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain
| | - Viviana Cuartas
- Instituto de Química Médica, CSIC, Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain
| | - Silvia Balducci
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, “Department of Excellence 2018−2022”, Sapienza Università di Roma, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Michael S. Christodoulou
- DISFARM, Sezione di Chimica Generale e Organica “A. Marchesini”, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Venezian 21, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Fabrizi
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, “Department of Excellence 2018−2022”, Sapienza Università di Roma, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Gargantilla
- Instituto de Química Médica, CSIC, Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain
| | - Eva-María Priego
- Instituto de Química Médica, CSIC, Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Daniele Passarella
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Golgi, 19, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Bruno Botta
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, “Department of Excellence 2018−2022”, Sapienza Università di Roma, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Rocco Palermo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Mattia Mori
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, “Department of Excellence 2018−2022”, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Francesca Ghirga
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Tottone L, Zhdanovskaya N, Carmona Pestaña Á, Zampieri M, Simeoni F, Lazzari S, Ruocco V, Pelullo M, Caiafa P, Felli MP, Checquolo S, Bellavia D, Talora C, Screpanti I, Palermo R. Histone Modifications Drive Aberrant Notch3 Expression/Activity and Growth in T-ALL. Front Oncol 2019; 9:198. [PMID: 31001470 PMCID: PMC6456714 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive blood cancer caused by the deregulation of key T-cell developmental pathways, including Notch signaling. Aberrant Notch signaling in T-ALL occurs by NOTCH1 gain-of-function mutations and by NOTCH3 overexpression. Although NOTCH3 is assumed as a Notch1 target, machinery driving its transcription in T-ALL is undefined in leukemia subsets lacking Notch1 activation. Here, we found that the binding of the intracellular Notch3 domain, as well as of the activated Notch1 fragment, to the NOTCH3 gene locus led to the recruitment of the H3K27 modifiers JMJD3 and p300, and it was required to preserve transcriptional permissive/active H3K27 marks and to sustain NOTCH3 gene expression levels. Consistently, pharmacological inhibition of JMJD3 by GSKJ4 treatment or of p300 by A-485 decreased the levels of expression of NOTCH3, NOTCH1 and of the Notch target genes DELTEX1 and c-Myc and abrogated cell viability in both Notch1- and Notch3-dependent T-cell contexts. Notably, re-introduction of exogenous Notch1, Notch3 as well as c-Myc partially rescued cells from anti-growth effects induced by either treatment. Overall our findings indicate JMJD3 and p300 as general Notch1 and Notch3 signaling co-activators in T-ALL and suggest further investigation on the potential therapeutic anti-leukemic efficacy of their enzymatic inhibition in Notch/c-Myc axis-related cancers and diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Tottone
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Michele Zampieri
- Department of Cellular Biotechnologies and Hematology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Simeoni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Lazzari
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Ruocco
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Pelullo
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Caiafa
- Department of Cellular Biotechnologies and Hematology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Felli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Saula Checquolo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnology, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - Diana Bellavia
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Talora
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rocco Palermo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Arcella A, Palchetti S, Digiacomo L, Pozzi D, Capriotti AL, Frati L, Oliva MA, Tsaouli G, Rota R, Screpanti I, Mahmoudi M, Caracciolo G. Brain Targeting by Liposome-Biomolecular Corona Boosts Anticancer Efficacy of Temozolomide in Glioblastoma Cells. ACS Chem Neurosci 2018; 9:3166-3174. [PMID: 30015470 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.8b00339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Temozolomide (TMZ) is the current first-line chemotherapy for treatment of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). However, similar to other brain therapeutic compounds, access of TMZ to brain tumors is impaired by the blood-brain barrier (BBB) leading to poor response for GBM patients. To overcome this major hurdle, we have synthesized a set of TMZ-encapsulating nanomedicines made of four cationic liposome (CL) formulations with systematic changes in lipid composition and physical-chemical properties. The targeting nature of this nanomedicine is provided by the recruitment of proteins, with natural targeting capacity, in the biomolecular corona (BC) layer that forms around CLs after exposure to human plasma (HP). TMZ-loaded CL-BC complexes were thoroughly characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), electrophoretic light scattering (ELS), and nanoliquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (nano-LC MS/MS). BCs were found to be enriched of typical BC fingerprints (BCFs) (e.g., Apolipoproteins, Vitronectin, and vitamin K-dependent protein), which have a substantial capacity in binding to receptors that are overexpressed at the BBB (e.g., scavenger receptor class B, type I and low-density lipoprotein receptor). We found that the CL formulation exhibiting the highest levels of targeting BCFs had larger uptake in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) that are commonly used as an in vitro model of the BBB. This formulation could also deliver TMZ to the human glioblastoma U-87 MG cell line and thus substantially enhance their antitumor efficacy compared to corona free CLs. Thus, we propose that the BC-based nanomedicines may pave a more effective way for efficient treatment of GBM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonietta Arcella
- Istituto Neurologico Mediterraneo Neuromed, Via dell’Elettronica 86077 Pozzilli (IS), Italy
| | - Sara Palchetti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Digiacomo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Pozzi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Laura Capriotti
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Frati
- Istituto Neurologico Mediterraneo Neuromed, Via dell’Elettronica 86077 Pozzilli (IS), Italy
| | - Maria Antonietta Oliva
- Istituto Neurologico Mediterraneo Neuromed, Via dell’Elettronica 86077 Pozzilli (IS), Italy
| | - Georgia Tsaouli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Rossella Rota
- Department of Oncohematology, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesu’, Viale San Paolo 15, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Morteza Mahmoudi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Giulio Caracciolo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Ferrandino F, Grazioli P, Bellavia D, Campese AF, Screpanti I, Felli MP. Notch and NF-κB: Coach and Players of Regulatory T-Cell Response in Cancer. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2165. [PMID: 30364244 PMCID: PMC6193072 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The Notch signaling pathway plays multiple roles in driving T-cell fate decisions, proliferation, and aberrant growth. NF-κB is a cell-context key player interconnected with Notch signaling either in physiological or in pathological conditions. This review focuses on how the multilayered crosstalk between different Notches and NF-κB subunits may converge on Foxp3 gene regulation and orchestrate CD4+ regulatory T (Treg) cell function, particularly in a tumor microenvironment. Notably, Treg cells may play a pivotal role in the inhibition of antitumor immune responses, possibly promoting tumor growth. A future challenge is represented by further dissection of both Notch and NF-κB pathways and consequences of their intersection in tumor-associated Treg biology. This may shed light on the molecular mechanisms regulating Treg cell expansion and migration to peripheral lymphoid organs thought to facilitate tumor development and still to be explored. In so doing, new opportunities for combined and/or more selective therapeutic approaches to improve anticancer immunity may be found.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Paola Grazioli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, La Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Diana Bellavia
- Department of Molecular Medicine, La Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Maria Pia Felli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, La Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Di Ianni M, Baldoni S, Del Papa B, Aureli P, Dorillo E, De Falco F, Albi E, Varasano E, Di Tommaso A, Giancola R, Accorsi P, Rotta G, Rompietti C, Silva Barcelos EC, Campese AF, Di Bartolomeo P, Screpanti I, Rosati E, Falzetti F, Sportoletti P. NOTCH1 Is Aberrantly Activated in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Hematopoietic Stem Cells. Front Oncol 2018; 8:105. [PMID: 29732315 PMCID: PMC5919960 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2018.00105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
To investigate chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)-initiating cells, we assessed NOTCH1 mutation/expression in hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). In NOTCH1-mutated CLL, we detected subclonal mutations in 57% CD34+/CD38− HSCs. NOTCH1 mutation was present in 66% CD34+/CD38+ progenitor cells displaying an increased mutational burden compared to HSCs. Flow cytometric analysis revealed significantly higher NOTCH1 activation in CD34+/CD38− and CD34+/CD38+ cells from CLL patients, regardless NOTCH1 mutation compared to healthy donors. Activated NOTCH1 resulted in overexpression of the NOTCH1 target c-MYC. We conclude that activated NOTCH1 is an early event in CLL that may contribute to aberrant HSCs in this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Di Ianni
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University of Chieti Pescara, Chieti, Italy.,Department of Hematology, Transfusion Medicine and Biotechnologies, Ospedale Civile, Pescara, Italy
| | - Stefano Baldoni
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, Hematology Section, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Beatrice Del Papa
- Institute of Hematology-Centro di Ricerche Emato-Oncologiche (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Patrizia Aureli
- Institute of Hematology-Centro di Ricerche Emato-Oncologiche (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Erica Dorillo
- Institute of Hematology-Centro di Ricerche Emato-Oncologiche (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Filomena De Falco
- Institute of Hematology-Centro di Ricerche Emato-Oncologiche (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Elisa Albi
- Institute of Hematology-Centro di Ricerche Emato-Oncologiche (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Emanuela Varasano
- Institute of Hematology-Centro di Ricerche Emato-Oncologiche (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Ambra Di Tommaso
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, Hematology Section, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Raffaella Giancola
- Department of Hematology, Transfusion Medicine and Biotechnologies, Ospedale Civile, Pescara, Italy
| | - Patrizia Accorsi
- Department of Hematology, Transfusion Medicine and Biotechnologies, Ospedale Civile, Pescara, Italy
| | | | - Chiara Rompietti
- Institute of Hematology-Centro di Ricerche Emato-Oncologiche (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Estevão Carlos Silva Barcelos
- Institute of Hematology-Centro di Ricerche Emato-Oncologiche (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy.,Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Brazil
| | | | - Paolo Di Bartolomeo
- Department of Hematology, Transfusion Medicine and Biotechnologies, Ospedale Civile, Pescara, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuela Rosati
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Biosciences and Medical Embriology Section, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Franca Falzetti
- Institute of Hematology-Centro di Ricerche Emato-Oncologiche (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Paolo Sportoletti
- Institute of Hematology-Centro di Ricerche Emato-Oncologiche (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common pediatric malignancy. Although the therapy of ALL has significantly improved, the heterogeneous genetic landscape of the disease often causes relapse, which is difficult to treat. Achieving a positive outcome for patients with relapsed or refractory ALL remains a challenging issue. The high prevalence of NOTCH-activating mutations in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) and the central role of NOTCH signaling in regulating cell survival and growth of ALL provide a rationale for the development of Notch signaling-targeted strategies in this disease. Therapeutic alternatives with effective anti-leukemic potential and low toxicity are needed. Areas covered: This review provides an overview of the currently available drugs directly or indirectly targeting Notch signaling in ALL. Besides considering the known Notch targeting approaches, such as γ-secretase inhibitors (GSIs) and Notch inhibiting antibodies (mAbs), currently in clinical trials, we focus on the recent insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the Notch signaling regulation in ALL. Expert opinion: Novel drugs targeting specific steps of Notch signaling or intersecting pathways could improve the efficiency of the conventional hematological cancers therapies. Further studies are required to translate the new findings into future clinical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diana Bellavia
- a Department of Molecular Medicine , Sapienza University , Rome , Italy
| | - Rocco Palermo
- b Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza , Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia , Rome , Italy
| | - Maria Pia Felli
- c Department of Experimental Medicine , Sapienza University , Rome , Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- a Department of Molecular Medicine , Sapienza University , Rome , Italy.,b Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza , Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia , Rome , Italy.,d Institute Pasteur-Foundation Cenci Bolognetti , Sapienza University , Rome , Italy
| | - Saula Checquolo
- e Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnology , Sapienza University , Latina , Italy
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Coppa A, Nicolussi A, D'Inzeo S, Capalbo C, Belardinilli F, Colicchia V, Petroni M, Zani M, Ferraro S, Rinaldi C, Buffone A, Bartolazzi A, Screpanti I, Ottini L, Giannini G. Optimizing the identification of risk-relevant mutations by multigene panel testing in selected hereditary breast/ovarian cancer families. Cancer Med 2018; 7:46-55. [PMID: 29271107 PMCID: PMC5773970 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.1251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Revised: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The introduction of multigene panel testing for hereditary breast/ovarian cancer screening has greatly improved efficiency, speed, and costs. However, its clinical utility is still debated, mostly due to the lack of conclusive evidences on the impact of newly discovered genetic variants on cancer risk and lack of evidence-based guidelines for the clinical management of their carriers. In this pilot study, we aimed to test whether a systematic and multiparametric characterization of newly discovered mutations could enhance the clinical utility of multigene panel sequencing. Out of a pool of 367 breast/ovarian cancer families Sanger-sequenced for BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations, we selected a cohort of 20 BRCA1/2-negative families to be subjected to the BROCA-Cancer Risk Panel massive parallel sequencing. As a strategy for the systematic characterization of newly discovered genetic variants, we collected blood and cancer tissue samples and established lymphoblastoid cell lines from all available individuals in these families, to perform segregation analysis, loss-of-heterozygosity and further molecular studies. We identified loss-of-function mutations in 6 out 20 high-risk families, 5 of which occurred on BRCA1, CHEK2 and ATM and are esteemed to be risk-relevant. In contrast, a novel RAD50 truncating mutation is most likely unrelated to breast cancer. Our data suggest that integrating multigene panel testing with a pre-organized, multiparametric characterization of newly discovered genetic variants improves the identification of risk-relevant alleles impacting on the clinical management of their carriers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Coppa
- Department of Experimental MedicineUniversity La SapienzaV.le R. Elena 324Rome00161Italy
| | - Arianna Nicolussi
- Department of Experimental MedicineUniversity La SapienzaV.le R. Elena 324Rome00161Italy
| | - Sonia D'Inzeo
- Department of Experimental MedicineUniversity La SapienzaV.le R. Elena 324Rome00161Italy
| | - Carlo Capalbo
- Department of Molecular MedicineUniversity La SapienzaV.le R. Elena 291Rome00161Italy
| | | | - Valeria Colicchia
- Department of Molecular MedicineUniversity La SapienzaV.le R. Elena 291Rome00161Italy
| | - Marialaura Petroni
- Center for Life Nano Science@SapienzaIstituto Italiano di TecnologiaRome00161Italy
| | - Massimo Zani
- Department of Molecular MedicineUniversity La SapienzaV.le R. Elena 291Rome00161Italy
| | - Sergio Ferraro
- Department of Molecular MedicineUniversity La SapienzaV.le R. Elena 291Rome00161Italy
| | - Christian Rinaldi
- Department of Molecular MedicineUniversity La SapienzaV.le R. Elena 291Rome00161Italy
| | - Amelia Buffone
- Department of Molecular MedicineUniversity La SapienzaV.le R. Elena 291Rome00161Italy
| | - Armando Bartolazzi
- Department of PathologySant'Andrea HospitalUniversity La SapienzaVia di Grottarossa 1035Rome00189Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular MedicineUniversity La SapienzaV.le R. Elena 291Rome00161Italy
| | - Laura Ottini
- Department of Molecular MedicineUniversity La SapienzaV.le R. Elena 291Rome00161Italy
| | - Giuseppe Giannini
- Department of Molecular MedicineUniversity La SapienzaV.le R. Elena 291Rome00161Italy
- Istituto Pasteur‐Fondazione Cenci BolognettiRome00161Italy
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Bellavia D, Checquolo S, Palermo R, Screpanti I. The Notch3 Receptor and Its Intracellular Signaling-Dependent Oncogenic Mechanisms. Adv Exp Med Biol 2018; 1066:205-222. [PMID: 30030828 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-89512-3_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
During evolution, gene duplication of the Notch receptor suggests a progressive functional diversification. The Notch3 receptor displays a number of structural differences with respect to Notch1 and Notch2, most of which have been reported in the transmembrane and in the intracellular regions, mainly localized in the negative regulatory region (NRR) and trans-activation domain (TAD). Targeted deletion of Notch3 does not result in embryonic lethality, which is in line with its highly restricted tissue expression pattern. Importantly, deregulated Notch3 expression and/or activation, often results in disrupted cell differentiation and/or pathological development, most notably in oncogenesis in different cell contexts. Mechanistically this is due to Notch3-related genetic alterations or epigenetic or posttranslational control mechanisms. In this chapter we discuss the possible relationships between the structural differences and the pathological role of Notch3 in the control of mouse and human cancers. In future, targeting the unique features of Notch3-oncogenic mechanisms could be exploited to develop anticancer therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diana Bellavia
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Saula Checquolo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rocco Palermo
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Quaranta R, Pelullo M, Zema S, Nardozza F, Checquolo S, Lauer DM, Bufalieri F, Palermo R, Felli MP, Vacca A, Talora C, Di Marcotullio L, Screpanti I, Bellavia D. Maml1 acts cooperatively with Gli proteins to regulate sonic hedgehog signaling pathway. Cell Death Dis 2017; 8:e2942. [PMID: 28726779 PMCID: PMC5550871 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2017.326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2016] [Revised: 04/25/2017] [Accepted: 05/29/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling is essential for proliferation of cerebellar granule cell progenitors (GCPs) and its misregulation is linked to various disorders, including cerebellar cancer medulloblastoma. The effects of Shh pathway are mediated by the Gli family of transcription factors, which controls the expression of a number of target genes, including Gli1. Here, we identify Mastermind-like 1 (Maml1) as a novel regulator of the Shh signaling since it interacts with Gli proteins, working as a potent transcriptional coactivator. Notably, Maml1 silencing results in a significant reduction of Gli target genes expression, with a negative impact on cell growth of NIH3T3 and Patched1−/− mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs), bearing a constitutively active Shh signaling. Remarkably, Shh pathway activity results severely compromised both in MEFs and GCPs deriving from Maml1−/− mice with an impairment of GCPs proliferation and cerebellum development. Therefore Maml1−/− phenotype mimics aspects of Shh pathway deficiency, suggesting an intrinsic requirement for Maml1 in cerebellum development. The present study shows a new role for Maml1 as a component of Shh signaling, which plays a crucial role in both development and tumorigenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Quaranta
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Maria Pelullo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Sabrina Zema
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Francesca Nardozza
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Saula Checquolo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University, Latina 04100, Italy
| | | | | | - Rocco Palermo
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Felli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Alessandra Vacca
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Claudio Talora
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Lucia Di Marcotullio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome 00161, Italy.,Institute Pasteur-Foundation Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome 00161, Italy.,Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome 00161, Italy.,Institute Pasteur-Foundation Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Diana Bellavia
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome 00161, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Miele E, Po A, Begalli F, Antonucci L, Mastronuzzi A, Marras CE, Carai A, Cucchi D, Abballe L, Besharat ZM, Catanzaro G, Infante P, Di Marcotullio L, Canettieri G, De Smaele E, Screpanti I, Locatelli F, Ferretti E. β-arrestin1-mediated acetylation of Gli1 regulates Hedgehog/Gli signaling and modulates self-renewal of SHH medulloblastoma cancer stem cells. BMC Cancer 2017; 17:488. [PMID: 28716052 PMCID: PMC5512842 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-017-3477-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 07/09/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Aberrant Sonic Hedgehog/Gli (Hh/Gli) signaling pathway is a critical regulator of Sonic hedgehog medulloblastoma (SHH-MB). Cancer stem cells (CSCs), thought to be largely responsible for tumor initiation, maintenance, dissemination and relapse, have been identified in SHH-MB. Since we previously demonstrated that Hh/Gli signaling controls CSCs features in SHH-MB and that in these tumors miR-326 is down regulated, here we investigated whether there is a functional link between Hh/Gli signaling and miR-326. Methods We evaluated β-arrestin1 (Arrb1) and its intragenic miR-326 levels in CSCs derived from SHH-MB. Subsequently, we modulated the expression of Arrb1 and miR-326 in CSCs in order to gain insight into their biological role. We also analyzed the mechanism by which Arrb1 and miR-326 control Hh/Gli signaling and self-renewal, using luciferase and protein immunoprecipitation assays. Results Low levels of Arrb1 and miR-326 represent a feature of CSCs derived from SHH-MB. We observed that re-expression of Arrb1 and miR-326 inhibits Hh/Gli signaling pathway at multiple levels, which cause impaired proliferation and self-renewal, accompanied by down regulation of Nanog levels. In detail, miR-326 negatively regulates two components of the Hh/Gli pathway the receptor Smoothened (Smo) and the transcription factor Gli2, whereas Arrb1 suppresses the transcriptional activity of Gli1, by potentiating its p300-mediated acetylation. Conclusions Our results identify a new molecular mechanism involving miR-326 and Arrb1 as regulators of SHH-MB CSCs. Specifically, low levels of Arrb1 and miR-326 trigger and maintain Hh/Gli signaling and self-renewal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Evelina Miele
- Center for Life NanoScience@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161, Rome, Italy.,Department of Hematology/Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00165, Rome, Italy
| | - Agnese Po
- Department of Molecular Medicine Sapienza University, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Begalli
- Department of Molecular Medicine Sapienza University, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Antonucci
- Department of Molecular Medicine Sapienza University, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Mastronuzzi
- Department of Hematology/Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00165, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Efisio Marras
- Department of Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation, Neurosurgery Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00165, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Carai
- Department of Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation, Neurosurgery Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00165, Rome, Italy
| | - Danilo Cucchi
- Department of Molecular Medicine Sapienza University, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Luana Abballe
- Department of Experimental Medicine Sapienza University, Viale Regina Elena, 291 - 00161, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Zein Mersini Besharat
- Department of Experimental Medicine Sapienza University, Viale Regina Elena, 291 - 00161, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Catanzaro
- Department of Experimental Medicine Sapienza University, Viale Regina Elena, 291 - 00161, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Infante
- Center for Life NanoScience@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Enrico De Smaele
- Department of Experimental Medicine Sapienza University, Viale Regina Elena, 291 - 00161, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Center for Life NanoScience@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161, Rome, Italy.,Department of Molecular Medicine Sapienza University, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Franco Locatelli
- Department of Hematology/Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00165, Rome, Italy.,Department of Pediatric Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Ferretti
- Department of Experimental Medicine Sapienza University, Viale Regina Elena, 291 - 00161, 00161, Rome, Italy. .,Neuromed Institute, 86077, Pozzilli, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Mori M, Tottone L, Quaglio D, Zhdanovskaya N, Ingallina C, Fusto M, Ghirga F, Peruzzi G, Crestoni ME, Simeoni F, Giulimondi F, Talora C, Botta B, Screpanti I, Palermo R. Identification of a novel chalcone derivative that inhibits Notch signaling in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Sci Rep 2017; 7:2213. [PMID: 28526832 PMCID: PMC5438367 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-02316-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Notch signaling is considered a rational target in the therapy of several cancers, particularly those harbouring Notch gain of function mutations, including T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL). Although currently available Notch-blocking agents are showing anti-tumor activity in preclinical studies, they are not effective in all the patients and often cause severe side-effects, limiting their widespread therapeutic use. Here, by functional and biological analysis of the most representative molecules of an in house library of natural products, we have designed and synthetized the chalcone-derivative 8 possessing Notch inhibitory activity at low micro molar concentration in T-ALL cell lines. Structure-activity relationships were afforded for the chalcone scaffold. Short term treatments with compound 8 resulted in a dose-dependent decrease of Notch signaling activity, halted cell cycle progression and induced apoptosis, thus affecting leukemia cell growth. Taken together, our data indicate that 8 is a novel Notch inhibitor, candidate for further investigation and development as an additional therapeutic option against Notch-dependent cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Mori
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Luca Tottone
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Deborah Quaglio
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00185, Italy
| | - Nadezda Zhdanovskaya
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Cinzia Ingallina
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00185, Italy
| | - Marisa Fusto
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Francesca Ghirga
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Giovanna Peruzzi
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Maria Elisa Crestoni
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00185, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Simeoni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00161, Italy
- Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Manchester, M20 4BX, UK
| | - Francesca Giulimondi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Claudio Talora
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Bruno Botta
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00185, Italy.
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00161, Italy.
- Istituto Pasteur Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00161, Italy.
| | - Rocco Palermo
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, 00161, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Coni S, Mancuso AB, Di Magno L, Sdruscia G, Manni S, Serrao SM, Rotili D, Spiombi E, Bufalieri F, Petroni M, Kusio-Kobialka M, De Smaele E, Ferretti E, Capalbo C, Mai A, Niewiadomski P, Screpanti I, Di Marcotullio L, Canettieri G. Corrigendum: Selective targeting of HDAC1/2 elicits anticancer effects through Gli1 acetylation in preclinical models of SHH Medulloblastoma. Sci Rep 2017; 7:46645. [PMID: 28429760 PMCID: PMC5399352 DOI: 10.1038/srep46645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
|
40
|
Colicchia V, Petroni M, Guarguaglini G, Sardina F, Sahún-Roncero M, Carbonari M, Ricci B, Heil C, Capalbo C, Belardinilli F, Coppa A, Peruzzi G, Screpanti I, Lavia P, Gulino A, Giannini G. PARP inhibitors enhance replication stress and cause mitotic catastrophe in MYCN-dependent neuroblastoma. Oncogene 2017; 36:4682-4691. [PMID: 28394338 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2017.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2016] [Revised: 12/05/2016] [Accepted: 01/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
High-risk and MYCN-amplified neuroblastomas are among the most aggressive pediatric tumors. Despite intense multimodality therapies, about 50% of these patients succumb to their disease, making the search for effective therapies an absolute priority. Due to the important functions of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerases, PARP inhibitors have entered the clinical settings for cancer treatment and are being exploited in a variety of preclinical studies and clinical trials. PARP inhibitors based combination schemes have also been tested in neuroblastoma preclinical models with encouraging results. However, the expression of PARP enzymes in human neuroblastoma and the biological consequences of their inhibition remained largely unexplored. Here, we show that high PARP1 and PARP2 expression is significantly associated with high-risk neuroblastoma cases and poor survival, highlighting its previously unrecognized prognostic value for human neuroblastoma. In vitro, PARP1 and 2 are abundant in MYCN amplified and MYCN-overexpressing cells. In this context, PARP inhibitors with high 'PARP trapping' potency, such as olaparib or talazoparib, yield DNA damage and cell death preceded by intense signs of replication stress. Notwithstanding the activation of a CHK1-CDC25A replication stress response, PARP-inhibited MYCN amplified and overexpressing cells fail to sustain a prolonged checkpoint and progress through mitosis in the presence of damaged DNA, eventually undergoing mitotic catastrophe. CHK1-targeted inhibition of the replication stress checkpoint exacerbated this phenotype. These data highlight a novel route for cell death induction by PARP inhibitors and support their introduction, together with CHK1 inhibitors, in therapeutic approaches for neuroblastomas with high MYC(N) activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V Colicchia
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - M Petroni
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | - G Guarguaglini
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, CNR National Research Council, c/o University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - F Sardina
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - M Sahún-Roncero
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - M Carbonari
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - B Ricci
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - C Heil
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - C Capalbo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - F Belardinilli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - A Coppa
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - G Peruzzi
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | - I Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - P Lavia
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, CNR National Research Council, c/o University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - A Gulino
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - G Giannini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy.,Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Department of Molecular Medicine, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Cialfi S, Le Pera L, De Blasio C, Mariano G, Palermo R, Zonfrilli A, Uccelletti D, Palleschi C, Biolcati G, Barbieri L, Screpanti I, Talora C. Corrigendum: The loss of ATP2C1 impairs the DNA damage response and induces altered skin homeostasis: Consequences for epidermal biology in Hailey-Hailey disease. Sci Rep 2017; 7:44514. [PMID: 28300154 PMCID: PMC5353573 DOI: 10.1038/srep44514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
|
42
|
Grazioli P, Felli MP, Screpanti I, Campese AF. The mazy case of Notch and immunoregulatory cells. J Leukoc Biol 2017; 102:361-368. [DOI: 10.1189/jlb.1vmr1216-505r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2016] [Revised: 02/22/2017] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
|
43
|
Palchetti S, Pozzi D, Marchini C, Amici A, Andreani C, Bartolacci C, Digiacomo L, Gambini V, Cardarelli F, Di Rienzo C, Peruzzi G, Amenitsch H, Palermo R, Screpanti I, Caracciolo G. Manipulation of lipoplex concentration at the cell surface boosts transfection efficiency in hard-to-transfect cells. Nanomedicine: Nanotechnology, Biology and Medicine 2017; 13:681-691. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2016.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2016] [Revised: 08/03/2016] [Accepted: 08/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
44
|
Benvenuto M, Masuelli L, De Smaele E, Fantini M, Mattera R, Cucchi D, Bonanno E, Di Stefano E, Frajese GV, Orlandi A, Screpanti I, Gulino A, Modesti A, Bei R. In vitro and in vivo inhibition of breast cancer cell growth by targeting the Hedgehog/GLI pathway with SMO (GDC-0449) or GLI (GANT-61) inhibitors. Oncotarget 2017; 7:9250-70. [PMID: 26843616 PMCID: PMC4891038 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.7062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2015] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant Hedgehog (Hh)/glioma-associated oncogene (GLI) signaling has been implicated in cancer progression. Here, we analyzed GLI1, Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) and NF-κB expression in 51 breast cancer (ductal carcinoma) tissues using immunohistochemistry. We found a positive correlation between nuclear GLI1 expression and tumor grade in ductal carcinoma cases. Cytoplasmic Shh staining significantly correlated with a lower tumor grade. Next, the in vitro effects of two Hh signaling pathway inhibitors on breast cancer cell lines were evaluated using the Smoothened (SMO) antagonist GDC-0449 and the direct GLI1 inhibitor GANT-61. GDC-0449 and GANT-61 exhibited the following effects: a) inhibited breast cancer cell survival; b) induced apoptosis; c) inhibited Hh pathway activity by decreasing the mRNA expression levels of GLI1 and Ptch and inhibiting the nuclear translocation of GLI1; d) increased/decreased EGFR and ErbB2 protein expression, reduced p21-Ras and ERK1/ERK2 MAPK activities and inhibited AKT activation; and e) decreased the nuclear translocation of NF-κB. However, GANT-61 exerted these effects more effectively than GDC-0449. The in vivo antitumor activities of GDC-0449 and GANT-61 were analyzed in BALB/c mice that were subcutaneously inoculated with mouse breast cancer (TUBO) cells. GDC-0449 and GANT-61 suppressed tumor growth of TUBO cells in BALB/c mice to different extents. These findings suggest that targeting the Hh pathway using antagonists that act downstream of SMO is a more efficient strategy than using antagonists that act upstream of SMO for interrupting Hh signaling in breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monica Benvenuto
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Masuelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Enrico De Smaele
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Fantini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Rosanna Mattera
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy.,Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Rome "Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Danilo Cucchi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Rome "Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Bonanno
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Enrica Di Stefano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Vanni Frajese
- Department of Physical Education, Human Sciences and Health, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
| | - Augusto Orlandi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Rome "Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Gulino
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Rome "Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Modesti
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Bei
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Verginelli F, Adesso L, Limon I, Alisi A, Gueguen M, Panera N, Giorda E, Raimondi L, Ciarapica R, Campese AF, Screpanti I, Stifani S, Kitajewski J, Miele L, Rota R, Locatelli F. Activation of an endothelial Notch1-Jagged1 circuit induces VCAM1 expression, an effect amplified by interleukin-1β. Oncotarget 2016; 6:43216-29. [PMID: 26646450 PMCID: PMC4791227 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.6456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2015] [Accepted: 11/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The Notch1 and Notch4 signaling pathways regulate endothelial cell homeostasis. Inflammatory cytokines induce the expression of endothelial adhesion molecules, including VCAM1, partly by downregulating Notch4 signaling. We investigated the role of endothelial Notch1 in this IL-1β-mediated process. Brief treatment with IL-1β upregulated endothelial VCAM1 and Notch ligand Jagged1. IL-1β decreased Notch1 mRNA levels, but levels of the active Notch1ICD protein remained constant. IL-1β-mediated VCAM1 induction was downregulated in endothelial cells subjected to pretreatment with a pharmacological inhibitor of the γ-secretase, which activates Notch receptors, producing NotchICD. It was also downregulated in cells in which Notch1 and/or Jagged1 were silenced.Conversely, the forced expression of Notch1ICD in naïve endothelial cells upregulated VCAM1 per se and amplified IL-1β-mediated VCAM1 induction. Jagged1 levels increased and Notch4 signaling was downregulated in parallel. Finally, Notch1ICD and Jagged1 expression was upregulated in the endothelium of the liver in a model of chronic liver inflammation.In conclusion, we describe here a cell-autonomous, pro-inflammatory endothelial Notch1-Jagged1 circuit (i) triggering the expression of VCAM1 even in the absence of inflammatory cytokines and (ii) enhancing the effects of IL-1β. Thus, IL-1β regulates Notch1 and Notch4 activity in opposite directions, consistent with a selective targeting of Notch1 in inflamed endothelium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federica Verginelli
- Department of Oncohematology, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Adesso
- Department of Oncohematology, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Isabelle Limon
- Department of Sorbonne Universités, UPMC University Paris 06, CNRS, UMR, IBPS, Paris, France
| | - Anna Alisi
- Liver Research Unit, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Marie Gueguen
- Department of Sorbonne Universités, UPMC University Paris 06, CNRS, UMR, IBPS, Paris, France
| | - Nadia Panera
- Liver Research Unit, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Ezio Giorda
- Department of Unit of Flow Cytometry, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Lavinia Raimondi
- Department of Oncohematology, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Ciarapica
- Department of Oncohematology, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Stefano Stifani
- Center for Neuronal Survival, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Jan Kitajewski
- Departments of Pathology and Ob/Gyn, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lucio Miele
- Department of Genetics and Stanley Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center and Louisiana Cancer Research Consortium, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Rossella Rota
- Department of Oncohematology, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Franco Locatelli
- Department of Oncohematology, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Pediatriche, Università di Pavia, Pavia PV, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Infante P, Alfonsi R, Ingallina C, Quaglio D, Ghirga F, D'Acquarica I, Bernardi F, Di Magno L, Canettieri G, Screpanti I, Gulino A, Botta B, Mori M, Di Marcotullio L. Inhibition of Hedgehog-dependent tumors and cancer stem cells by a newly identified naturally occurring chemotype. Cell Death Dis 2016; 7:e2376. [PMID: 27899820 PMCID: PMC5059851 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2016.195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2016] [Revised: 05/24/2016] [Accepted: 06/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hedgehog (Hh) inhibitors have emerged as valid tools in the treatment of a wide range of cancers. Indeed, aberrant activation of the Hh pathway occurring either by ligand-dependent or -independent mechanisms is a key driver in tumorigenesis. The smoothened (Smo) receptor is one of the main upstream transducers of the Hh signaling and is a validated target for the development of anticancer compounds, as underlined by the FDA-approved Smo antagonist Vismodegib (GDC-0449/Erivedge) for the treatment of basal cell carcinoma. However, Smo mutations that confer constitutive activity and drug resistance have emerged during treatment with Vismodegib. For this reason, the development of new effective Hh inhibitors represents a major challenge for cancer therapy. Natural products have always represented a unique source of lead structures in drug discovery, and in recent years have been used to modulate the Hh pathway at multiple levels. Here, starting from an in house library of natural compounds and their derivatives, we discovered novel chemotypes of Hh inhibitors by mean of virtual screening against the crystallographic structure of Smo. Hh functional based assay identified the chalcone derivative 12 as the most effective Hh inhibitor within the test set. The chalcone 12 binds the Smo receptor and promotes the displacement of Bodipy-Cyclopamine in both Smo WT and drug-resistant Smo mutant. Our molecule stands as a promising Smo antagonist able to specifically impair the growth of Hh-dependent tumor cells in vitro and in vivo and medulloblastoma stem-like cells and potentially overcome the associated drug resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Infante
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Viale Regina Elena 291 Rome, Italy
| | - Romina Alfonsi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza Università di Roma, Viale Regina Elena 291, Rome, Italy
| | - Cinzia Ingallina
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Viale Regina Elena 291 Rome, Italy
| | - Deborah Quaglio
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Tecnologie del Farmaco, Sapienza Università di Roma, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Ghirga
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Viale Regina Elena 291 Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria D'Acquarica
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Tecnologie del Farmaco, Sapienza Università di Roma, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, Rome, Italy
| | - Flavia Bernardi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza Università di Roma, Viale Regina Elena 291, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Di Magno
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Viale Regina Elena 291 Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Canettieri
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza Università di Roma, Viale Regina Elena 291, Rome, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza Università di Roma, Viale Regina Elena 291, Rome, Italy
- Istituto Pasteur Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza Università di Roma, Viale Regina Elena 291, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Gulino
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza Università di Roma, Viale Regina Elena 291, Rome, Italy
| | - Bruno Botta
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Tecnologie del Farmaco, Sapienza Università di Roma, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, Rome, Italy
| | - Mattia Mori
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Viale Regina Elena 291 Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Di Marcotullio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza Università di Roma, Viale Regina Elena 291, Rome, Italy
- Istituto Pasteur Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza Università di Roma, Viale Regina Elena 291, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Cialfi S, Le Pera L, De Blasio C, Mariano G, Palermo R, Zonfrilli A, Uccelletti D, Palleschi C, Biolcati G, Barbieri L, Screpanti I, Talora C. The loss of ATP2C1 impairs the DNA damage response and induces altered skin homeostasis: Consequences for epidermal biology in Hailey-Hailey disease. Sci Rep 2016; 6:31567. [PMID: 27528123 PMCID: PMC4985699 DOI: 10.1038/srep31567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2016] [Accepted: 07/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutation of the Golgi Ca(2+)-ATPase ATP2C1 is associated with deregulated calcium homeostasis and altered skin function. ATP2C1 mutations have been identified as having a causative role in Hailey-Hailey disease, an autosomal-dominant skin disorder. Here, we identified ATP2C1 as a crucial regulator of epidermal homeostasis through the regulation of oxidative stress. Upon ATP2C1 inactivation, oxidative stress and Notch1 activation were increased in cultured human keratinocytes. Using RNA-seq experiments, we found that the DNA damage response (DDR) was consistently down-regulated in keratinocytes derived from the lesions of patients with Hailey-Hailey disease. Although oxidative stress activates the DDR, ATP2C1 inactivation down-regulates DDR gene expression. We showed that the DDR response was a major target of oxidative stress-induced Notch1 activation. Here, we show that this activation is functionally important because early Notch1 activation in keratinocytes induces keratinocyte differentiation and represses the DDR. These results indicate that an ATP2C1/NOTCH1 axis might be critical for keratinocyte function and cutaneous homeostasis, suggesting a plausible model for the pathological features of Hailey-Hailey disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Cialfi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Loredana Le Pera
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo De Blasio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Germano Mariano
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rocco Palermo
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Azzurra Zonfrilli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Uccelletti
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "C. Darwin"; Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Palleschi
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "C. Darwin"; Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Luca Barbieri
- Porphyria Center, San Gallicano Institute IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,Istituto Pasteur Italia, Fondazione Cenci-Bolognetti, Italy
| | - Claudio Talora
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Po A, Silvano M, Miele E, Eramo A, Todaro M, Capalbo C, Salvati V, Sette G, Cucchi D, Besharat ZM, Canettieri G, Di Marcotullio L, Screpanti I, Stassi G, De Maria R, Zeuner A, De Smaele E, Ferretti E. Abstract 2484: Non-canonical Hedgehog/Gli1 signaling drives lung adenocarcinoma stem cells survival and its targeting inhibits CSC-derived tumors. Cancer Res 2016. [DOI: 10.1158/1538-7445.am2016-2484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction: Lung Adenocarcinoma (AC) is the most frequent lung cancer histological subtype and is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Hedgehog/Gli (Hh/Gli) signaling pathway regulates lung development and its aberrant activation contributes to tumor pathogenesis and play a role in cancer stem cells (CSC) control.
We investigated oncogenic Hh/Gli signaling in AC-CSC.
Methods: human AC-CSC were derived from primary tumors. For in vitro studies AC-CSC were maintained in serum-free medium supplemented with EGF/bFGF. For in vivo experiments, immunocompromised mice were injected with AC-CSC. Gli1 inhibitor GANT61 was used both in vitro and in vivo (IP 40 mg/kg twice/we) treatments.
Results: Using mRNA datasets and tissue microarray of Non-small Cell Lung Cancer (NCSLC) samples we found that in AC Gli1 is expressed independently of its canonical activator Smoothened (Smo) expression level. Similarly, CSC were Gli1 positive regardless of Smo expression levels. Indeed, we found that SMO regulatory region is highly methylated in AC cells where Smo mRNA and protein are low.
Looking for Smo-independent regulation of GLI activity we found that NRP2/Erk and IGF1R/Erk axes regulate Gli1 in AC-CSC. Suppression of Gli1 with GANT61 in CSC resulted in impairment of cell growth and stemness features. We performed in-vivo experiments: CSC-derived xenograft from GANT61 treated mice showed impaired tumor growth, reduced proliferation and increased apoptosis. We next highlighted a tumor-stroma crosstalk. A positive autocrine oncogenic feedback loop sustains Gli1 in AC-CSC since we found that the CSC expressed NRP2 and its ligands VEGF-A and VEGF-C. A paracrine positive loop also sustain Hh/Gli signaling in AC where Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts (CAFs) harbor Hh/Gli1 canonical pathway that regulates the expression of VEGF-A, VEGF-C and IGF2 ligands of NRP2 and IGF1R respectively.
Conclusion: Our findings suggest a non-canonical activation of Hh/Gli pathway in AC. In this context, GLI1 transcription factor is effectors of NRP2/Erk and/or IGF1R/Erk signaling inputs.
Our results have implications for the understanding of AC development and sustain the inclusion of target therapy acting downstream of Smo level in the design of AC treatment.
Citation Format: Agnese Po, Marianna Silvano, Evelina Miele, Adriana Eramo, Matilde Todaro, Carlo Capalbo, Valentina Salvati, Giovanni Sette, Danilo Cucchi, Zein M. Besharat, Gianluca Canettieri, Lucia Di Marcotullio, Isabella Screpanti, Giorgio Stassi, Ruggero De Maria, Ann Zeuner, Enrico De Smaele, Elisabetta Ferretti. Non-canonical Hedgehog/Gli1 signaling drives lung adenocarcinoma stem cells survival and its targeting inhibits CSC-derived tumors. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 107th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2016 Apr 16-20; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(14 Suppl):Abstract nr 2484.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agnese Po
- 1Sapienza University of Rome, Roma, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ann Zeuner
- 3Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Roma, Italy
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Diluvio G, Del Gaudio F, Franciosa G, Giuli M, Felli M, Bellavia D, Screpanti I, Checquolo S. Notch3–EGFR crosstalk in triple negative breast cancers (TNBC): new therapeutic possibilities. Eur J Cancer 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/s0959-8049(16)61302-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
|
50
|
Patra A, Klein-Hessling S, Knobeloch K, Andrau J, Ellenrieder V, Screpanti I, Serfling E. Altered NFATc1 activity blocks T cell development and facilitates the pathogenesis of T-acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Eur J Cancer 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/s0959-8049(16)61624-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
|